Durock Lupine vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, two popular linear switch options that stand out are the Durock Lupine and the KTT Semi Mute. The Lupine switches are well-known for their delightful typing experience, thanks to the two-stage long springs that offer a consistent weight distribution while providing a powerful upward movement on the rebound. These switches produce a classic clacky sound profile, adding to the overall typing satisfaction. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switches, despite their name, operate silently, making them perfect for individuals who prioritize a noise-free environment, particularly during late-night typing sessions. With their linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, the Semi Mute switches offer a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics that meet specific preferences and requirements. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the KTT Semi Mute both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it a practical choice for those who wish to incorporate this feature in their keyboard setup.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, these switches differ. The Lupine features a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Semi Mute utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, mirroring the qualities of its top housing. This choice enhances the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile associated with polycarbonate.
In terms of typing experience, the bottom housing of the switch plays a significant role. The Lupine's nylon bottom housing contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the key, whereas the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing adds to the overall sound when you release a key. As a result, while both switches may offer similar qualities due to their shared polycarbonate top housings, their differing bottom housings create variations in sound and feel that can impact the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Lupine's actuation force is currently unknown, while the Semi Mute requires 43 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Lupine requires 62 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Semi Mute's 58 grams.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing between these switches. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lupine, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel and a stronger push when typing may opt for the Semi Mute, as its actuation force of 43 grams provides a satisfying typing experience.
However, it should be noted that both switches fall within the medium range when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. This means that while the Lupine may have a slightly heavier bottom out force, the overall typing experience between the two switches might still be quite similar. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience for each individual.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Semi Mute has a travel distance of 4 mm. Although both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Lupine is slightly shorter. This can be advantageous for gamers who prioritize faster response times and prefer a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute's slightly longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with the Lupine offering a slightly shorter option and the Semi Mute providing a slightly greater depth of travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
The KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a classic clacky sound profile. This means that users can expect a sharp and crisp sound when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch lives up to its name by offering completely silent operation. These switches are designed for those who value a noise-free environment and prefer undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions. They produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. If you prefer a more neutral sound profile, the Lupine switch would be a suitable choice, while the Semi Mute switch offers a muted sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch features two-stage long springs that provide a unique typing experience. When pressing down, there is a consistent weight distribution, and on the rebound, users feel a more powerful upward movement. This switch offers a mild typing experience, which means it provides a more gentle and approachable feel for most users. Additionally, the Lupine switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offers a buttery typing feel. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Similar to the Lupine switch, the Semi Mute switch also offers a mild typing experience that is comfortable and satisfying.
Based on the available information, the Durock Lupine and KTT Semi Mute linear switches offer different subjective qualities. The Lupine switch provides a classic clacky sound profile, a mild typing experience with polished finishing for reduced friction. Meanwhile, the Semi Mute switch prioritizes a noise-free environment with completely silent operation, offering a muted sound profile and a buttery typing feel. Both switches feature a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced. Ultimately, the choice between the Lupine and Semi Mute switches will depend on individual preferences, with the Lupine providing a more traditional typing experience and the Semi Mute catering to those seeking a noiseless solution.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a classic clacky sound profile and appreciate a two-stage long spring mechanism that provides a consistent weight distribution and powerful upward movement, then the Durock Lupine linear switch is the right choice for you. However, if you value a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, then the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is the way to go. The Semi Mute switch offers completely silent operation with its advanced dampening technology, ensuring a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. Additionally, if you prefer a softer and quieter sound profile, the Semi Mute switch delivers a muted experience that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, if you prefer a mild and polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Lupine switch will provide that sleek and refined finish. Ultimately, the decision depends on your preference for sound, feel, and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
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